The Best Road Cycling Routes in Nice - Cote d'Azur

Leaving Roquebillière along the Vésubie valley, this loop builds steadily before climbing toward Col de la Porte from Lantosque. The ascent feels quiet and wooded, leading into a remote section that drops dramatically toward Sospel, where the landscape briefly opens before the next major effort begins. From Sospel the road rises again toward Col de Turini, a long, sustained mountain climb that defines the day. The descent back to Roquebillière completes a demanding circuit shaped by iconic passes and deep alpine scenery, delivering a serious climbing challenge from start to finish.

This route links the Vésubie and Tinée valleys in one of the most mountainous corners of the Alpes Maritimes. Leaving Roquebillière, the road climbs steadily toward Col Saint Martin via La Colmiane, gaining height through forest before opening into a more alpine landscape with wide views and a strong sense of elevation. After crossing into the Tinée side, the route loops back via La Tour and the ascent of La Madone d Utelle, adding a second sustained climb that feels remote and expansive. It is a serious mountain circuit that stays high and quiet for much of the day, delivering back to back climbs and long descents in a setting that feels far removed from the Riviera coastline.

This ride feels lighter and more relaxed than the deeper mountain loops, beginning with a smooth descent toward the sea before tracing the coastline west toward Cannes. The rhythm is steady and open, with long stretches beside the water and that unmistakable Riviera brightness that makes the kilometres pass easily. From Cannes the road turns gently inland, climbing at a manageable pace through the hills above the coast and passing near Grasse before returning via the Loup valley. The final section feels greener and more sheltered, closing the loop with a calm inland character that contrasts nicely with the open coastal start.